The whisperings from the manufacturers reinforce rumours last week that predicted an expanded iPhone.

This mythical screen won't just be bigger than the 3.5in current offering. It will have a slightly higher resolution, packing 330 dots per inch compared to the current pixel density of 326 on the iPhone 4S, making it officially high resolution. The new wonder-screen will also be more energy efficient and thinner than current iPhone displays.

Apple's 4in screen may use a new type of semiconductor - a "modified IGZO" (indium, gallium, zinc) technology. The source for the latter was an investors' report by stock analyst Peter Misek.

The Hitachi and Sony offshoots will merge with Toshiba in Spring 2012 to create a new company Japan Display KK. Further rumours suggest that Apple has invested heavily in Sharp's display factory. ®